Approach to the Critical Patient

Triage and limb threat

Immediate priorities

Immediate actions

Early stabilization

History

Mechanism and risk

Injury context

Red flags and modifiers

High risk features

Physical Exam

Focused hand exam

Inspection

Function and neurovascular

Neurovascular

Tendon and joint

PITFALLS

Common misses

Differential Diagnosis

Traumatic fingertip conditions

Alternatives and co-injuries

Coding considerations

Diagnostic codes

Laboratory Tests

Usually none

No routine labs

When indicated

Targeted testing

Diagnostic Tests

Scoring Systems

Classification and implications

Radiographs

X-ray evaluation

MRI

Limited role

CT

Rare indications

Disposition

Outpatient pathway

Discharge appropriate

Urgent specialist pathway

Hand surgery or orthopedics consult

Follow-up timing

Reassessment plan

Treatment

Immediate life-saving interventions

Time critical issues

Immobilization and Splinting

Splint strategy

Reduction

Rarely needed

Analgesia and anesthesia

Open fracture medications and timing

Antibiotics decision

Tetanus prophylaxis

DVT prophylaxis when relevant

Not indicated

Special Populations

Pregnancy

Pregnancy considerations

Geriatric

Older adult considerations

Pediatrics

Pediatric considerations

Background

Epidemiology

Frequency patterns

Pathophysiology

Injury mechanics

Therapeutic Considerations

Rationale for conservative care

Patient Discharge Instructions

Copy discharge instructions

Discharge instructions

References

Evidence-based sources

Key sources

SymptomDx is an educational tool for medical professionals. It does not replace clinical judgment. Verify all clinical data and drug dosages with authoritative sources.